The International Maritime Organization’s 138th Council closed in London on Nov.
6, reiterating that major international straits and shipping routes must remain
open and secure and that all seafarers should be protected regardless of
nationality. IMO Secretary-General Dominguez condemned recent attacks on
merchant ships and crew in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb, called for an
immediate end to the attacks, and said a Marshall Islands‑flagged tanker was
struck on Nov. 5, killing one Filipino crew member. The IMO said it will
continue liaising with stakeholders and other international organizations,
monitor the situation and study further measures to prevent additional
fatalities and mitigate humanitarian impact. The council also decided to
recommend the Assembly approve Dominguez’s reappointment as secretary‑general
for a four‑year term.
